Facing the Enemy
Look deeply, not just while on your meditation cushion but wherever you are,
whatever you are doing. Living mindfully is the best way to prevent accidents and
protect yourself. Recognize your deep desire to live in peace and safety, to have
the support you need, and to practice mindfulness. You might like to write down
some of your observations and insights. The Buddha said that once we realize that
we are the closest and most precious person on Earth to ourselves, we will stop
treating ourselves as an enemy. This practice dissolves in us any wish we might
have to harm ourselves or others.
â€"Thich Nhat Hanh, from Teachings on Love (Parallax Press)
